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Day: December 18, 2025

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Long Beach Beaches Closed After Upstream Sewage Spill
Posted inLocal News

Long Beach Beaches Closed After Upstream Sewage Spill

LONG BEACH, Calif. — All open coastal swimming areas in Long Beach have been temporarily closed following a sewage spill that may impact ocean water quality, according to Acting City…
Posted by LBLN December 18, 2025
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Long Beach Beaches Closed After Upstream Sewage Sp Long Beach Beaches Closed After Upstream Sewage Spill All open coastal swimming areas in Long Beach have been temporarily closed following a sewage spill that may impact ocean water quality, according to Acting City Health Officer Dr. Cliff Okada. The closure is required under state law and is being implemented out of an abundance of caution until water quality meets California health standards. Warning signs have been posted at affected beaches advising the public to stay out of the water. According to the California Office of Emergency Services (CalOES), more than 18,000 gallons of sewage were discharged into the San Gabriel River on Tuesday, Dec. 16. The spill occurred in the City of Industry after railway installation work cut through a sewer pipe, allowing sewage to flow downstream toward ocean waters. The Long Beach Health Department’s Recreational Water Quality Environmental Health Specialists are actively monitoring water conditions along the city’s coastline. Sampling and testing will continue until results comply with state water quality requirements, at which point swimming areas may be reopened. Long Beach has more than six miles of public beach, where water quality is routinely monitored through weekly sampling to track bacterial levels and protect public health. City officials are urging residents and visitors to heed posted warning signs and avoid all water contact while the closures remain in effect. For the latest updates on beach water quality and closures, the public can call the Long Beach Water Hotline at 562-570-4199 or visit longbeach.gov/beachwaterquality.
LBPD Steps Up DUI Patrols During Holiday Season to LBPD Steps Up DUI Patrols During Holiday Season to Keep Roads Safe LONG BEACH, Calif. — As holiday celebrations increase, the Long Beach Police Department (LBPD) is reminding the public that impaired driving continues to be a serious safety concern. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, 1,038 people were killed nationwide in alcohol-impaired-driving crashes in December 2023 alone. To help prevent similar tragedies, LBPD is urging residents to celebrate responsibly and never drive under the influence of alcohol or drugs. From December 12 through New Year’s Day, LBPD will deploy additional officers on patrol to watch for drivers suspected of being impaired. The increased enforcement is part of the national “Drive Sober or Get Pulled Over” campaign, which aims to remove impaired drivers from the road and reduce traffic-related injuries and deaths. “We want to make sure everyone gets home safely so they can celebrate the holiday season with their families and loved ones,” said LBPD Commander Jeremy Boshnack. “Driving impaired is illegal, dangerous and never acceptable.” Police encourage anyone planning to drink to prepare in advance by designating a sober driver, using public transportation, or calling a taxi or rideshare service. Staying in for the night is also a safe alternative. LBPD emphasized that impairment is not limited to alcohol. Prescription medications, over-the-counter drugs, cannabis products and other substances can also affect driving ability. Anyone taking medications with a warning label should allow a sober person to drive. Authorities urge residents to call 9-1-1 if they observe someone who appears to be driving while impaired. Funding for the enforcement effort is provided by a grant from the California Office of Traffic Safety through the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration.
Long Beach Surgeon Reaches Milestone With 2,000th Long Beach Surgeon Reaches Milestone With 2,000th Robotic-Assisted Joint Replacement LONG BEACH, Calif. — The MemorialCare Joint Replacement Center at Long Beach Medical Center reached a major milestone as medical director Andrew Wassef, M.D., successfully completed his 2,000th Mako robotic-assisted joint replacement surgery, highlighting his expertise in minimally invasive orthopedic care and the hospital’s leadership in advanced joint replacement technology. Dr. Wassef and the operating room team marked the achievement, which reflects the center’s commitment to precision surgery, quality outcomes, and patient satisfaction. Hospital officials say the milestone further positions Long Beach Medical Center as a community hospital delivering care comparable to major academic medical centers through advanced technology and highly skilled physicians. The Mako robotic-assisted system enhances accuracy in knee and hip replacement procedures by using real-time data and 3D mapping tailored to each patient’s anatomy. The technology allows surgeons to plan and perform procedures with greater precision, often leading to faster recovery, improved outcomes, and increased long-term mobility. The 2,000th procedure was performed on Jacqueline, a 75-year-old patient who received a Mako-assisted left knee replacement. After years of chronic knee pain and limited mobility, she is recovering smoothly and is expected to return to a more active, pain-free lifestyle. The Joint Replacement Center at Long Beach Medical Center provides comprehensive care, including pre-operative education, personalized surgical planning, and post-surgical rehabilitation. The center specializes in hip, knee, shoulder, and ankle replacements and is led by top orthopedic specialists. Recognized by Newsweek as one of America’s Best Orthopedic Hospitals, the center continues to advance robotic-assisted surgery, with many patients able to move the same day and return home within two days. For more information, call (562) 933-4014.
Man Shot near Silverado Park Shootout in Long Beac Man Shot near Silverado Park Shootout in Long Beach LONG BEACH, Calif. — One man was wounded in a shootout near Silverado Park in Long Beach Wednesday evening, authorities said. LBPD Officers responded to a report of shots fired at approximately 5:54 p.m. on Dec. 10, 2025, in the 1500 block of West 31st Street. The call was later determined to be a hit shooting. According to LBPD public information officer Jordan McGinley, a male adult sustained non-life-threatening gunshot wounds to the upper body. He was treated for his injuries; his current condition was not immediately released. Preliminary investigation indicates that a group of male adults approached a second group and fired shots in their direction, striking the victim. The second group then returned fire toward the first group. The motive for the shooting and any suspect information remain under investigation.
Teenagers Shot in Long Beach; Police Investigating Teenagers Shot in Long Beach; Police Investigating LONG BEACH, Calif. — Three teenage boys were involved in a shooting Thursday evening in Long Beach, authorities said. Officers were dispatched at approximately 5:29 p.m. on Dec. 11, 2025, to a reported shooting in the 800 block of Orange Avenue. Upon arrival, officers located three male juvenile victims at the scene. One of the teens suffered non-life-threatening gunshot wounds to his upper and lower body. Officers rendered immediate aid until Long Beach Fire Department paramedics arrived and transported the victim to a local hospital. A second teen was treated at the scene by paramedics for a minor gunshot wound to his upper body. The third teen was not injured. Preliminary investigation indicates the victims were confronted by a group of male suspects. Following a verbal exchange, one of the suspects opened fire on the teens. The suspects fled the area before officers arrived. A crime scene was established, and the investigation remains ongoing. Anyone with information related to the incident is urged to contact Long Beach Police.
Pedestrian Killed in Early-Morning Collision in Lo Pedestrian Killed in Early-Morning Collision in Long Beach LONG BEACH, Calif. — Detectives with the Long Beach Police Department’s Collision Investigation Detail are investigating a fatal traffic collision that claimed the life of a woman early Thursday morning. The incident occurred on Dec. 11, 2025, at approximately 6:18 a.m., when officers were dispatched to the area of East Anaheim Street and Rose Avenue after reports of a traffic collision. Upon arrival, officers found an adult female pedestrian lying in the roadway. They immediately began life-saving efforts until Long Beach Fire Department personnel arrived and took over. The victim was transported to a local hospital, where she was later pronounced deceased. According to preliminary findings, a 2022 Honda Accord was traveling westbound on East Anaheim Street when it struck the woman as she crossed the roadway in an unmarked crosswalk. Investigators say speed, impairment, and distracted driving do not appear to be factors in the collision. The driver remained at the scene and cooperated fully with authorities. The identity of the victim is being withheld pending notification of next of kin by the Los Angeles County Department of Medical Examiner. Anyone who witnessed the collision is urged to contact Collision Investigation Detail Detective Edwin Paredes at (562) 570-7110.
Police Say Driver Intentionally Hit Victim After A Police Say Driver Intentionally Hit Victim After Argument Homicide detectives have arrested a Lynwood man in connection with the killing of a 28-year-old Long Beach resident who was struck and killed early Saturday morning in the 1700 block of Newport Avenue. According to the Long Beach Police Department, officers responded around 1:47 a.m. on Dec. 7, 2025, to reports of a traffic collision. When they arrived, they found an unconscious male lying in the roadway. Officers performed life-saving measures until Long Beach Fire Department personnel arrived, but the victim died at the scene. Investigators determined the incident was not an accident, but an intentional act stemming from a prior dispute. Detectives say the victim and suspect engaged in a verbal argument shortly before the collision. After the confrontation, the victim — identified as 28-year-old Samuel Ocegueda of Long Beach — began crossing Newport Avenue outside a crosswalk. While Ocegueda was in the roadway, the suspect allegedly drove a dark four-door sedan directly into him, intentionally striking him. The driver then fled, continuing southbound on Newport Avenue and westbound on Wilton Street. Homicide detectives quickly launched an investigation and identified 28-year-old Isai Solis of Lynwood as the suspect. Later that same day, Special Investigation Detectives located Solis in the 12400 block of Sante Fe Avenue in Lynwood, where he was taken into custody. Solis was booked on suspicion of murder and is being held on $2,000,000 bail. Police say the case will be presented to the Los Angeles County District Attorney’s Office for filing consideration. Anyone with additional information is urged to contact Long Beach Police Department Homicide detectives.
Long Beach Christmas Parade Breaks World Record Wi Long Beach Christmas Parade Breaks World Record With 15,736 in Pajamas LONG BEACH, Calif. — Long Beach’s 41st annual Belmont Shore Christmas Parade lit up Second Street on Saturday night and made history in the process. From 6 to 9 p.m. on Dec. 6, thousands lined the streets of Belmont Shore for what became the world’s largest pajama party, with 15,736 people wearing festive pajamas to help break the world record for most people in pajamas at one time. The cozy celebration matched this year’s theme, “Jingle Jammies.” The parade, organized by the Belmont Shore Business Association, featured more than 100 entries, including local high school marching bands, dance groups, creative floats built by Long Beach businesses and community groups, and appearances by local leaders and personalities. The Long Beach Fire Department helped escort the evening’s most anticipated guest Santa Claus, who closed out the parade to cheers from bundled-up families lining the route. Organizers called the event a huge success, noting that the record-breaking turnout added an extra layer of holiday spirit to one of Long Beach’s most beloved traditions. Photos and video by Heather Kern and Belmont Shore Business Association
California Task Force Clears Long Beach Homeless E California Task Force Clears Long Beach Homeless Encampments LONG BEACH, Calif. — A statewide task force aimed at dismantling homeless encampments has begun work in Long Beach, but the effort is raising questions about why action took so long and whether the city has enough shelter space to support the roughly 3,500 people currently living unhoused. Governor Gavin Newsom announced that California’s SAFE Task Force, a coordinated team involving Caltrans, CHP and state housing and health agencies is now operating in Long Beach as part of a broader effort to clear unsafe encampments on state-owned property across the state’s 10 largest cities. “California’s SAFE Task Force is currently underway in Long Beach, addressing the national homelessness crisis by connecting people with support and care,” Newsom said. “This is proof that with urgency, compassion, and accountability, we can improve the safety and quality of life for everyone.” The cleanup has renewed debate over whether Long Beach has sufficient shelter beds to accommodate the individuals displaced by these removals. With an estimated 3,500+ homeless citywide, advocates are questioning if existing shelters, motel programs, and temporary housing options can meet the demand. Officials have yet to clarify how many beds are available or how they plan to prevent people from simply being pushed to new locations. Residents are also asking why the city wasn’t leading this effort sooner. While Long Beach conducts encampment cleanups on city-owned land, many of the largest encampments sit along freeways and rail corridors under Caltrans jurisdiction areas the city cannot clear without state involvement. Even so, some community members say they’ve been reporting hazardous conditions for years and want to know why stronger coordination between the city and state didn’t happen earlier. As the state task force continues its work in Long Beach, questions remain about long-term outcomes, shelter capacity, and whether this intervention will lead to lasting solutions or temporary displacement. Photo by SkyFox
@angels Players Bring Joy to Young Patients at @mi @angels Players Bring Joy to Young Patients at @millerchildrens LONG BEACH, Calif. — Los Angeles Angels players Nolan Schanuel and José Soriano spent the day brightening the halls of MemorialCare Miller Children’s & Women’s Hospital Long Beach, where they met with young patients and their families as part of the team’s ongoing community outreach efforts. The pair of Angels stars brought smiles and excitement as they signed autographs, shared stories, and participated in hands-on activities designed to lift the spirits of children undergoing treatment. Patients also received Angels hats, jerseys, and the team’s iconic Rally Monkeys, special keepsakes meant to encourage and support them during their hospital stay. Through a longstanding partnership with the hospital, the Angels regularly host patients and families at home games, offering memorable experiences beyond the hospital walls. These visits also help enhance the hospital’s Child Life Program, which focuses on improving the emotional well-being of young patients through play, education, and support. Child Life Specialists coordinate events like the Angels’ visit to create a fun, engaging, and child-friendly environment, whether through bedside activities or hospital-wide celebrations. Their work ensures that children can experience moments of joy and normalcy despite the challenges of hospitalization. The Angels’ continued presence at Miller Children’s & Women’s Hospital stands as a testament to their commitment to the community. With every laugh shared, autograph signed, and jersey delivered, players like Schanuel and Soriano help create uplifting experiences that leave a lasting impact on children and families alike.
Two Arrested in Death of 14-Month-Old Girl in Long Two Arrested in Death of 14-Month-Old Girl in Long Beach LONG BEACH, Calif. — Homicide detectives have arrested two suspects in connection with the child abuse and death of a 14-month-old girl, authorities announced. On Nov. 7, 2025, officers responded to a local hospital after receiving a report of a possible child abuse incident involving an unresponsive toddler who showed signs of trauma. Child Abuse detectives responded and coordinated with the Los Angeles County Department of Children and Family Services (DCFS) as part of the investigation. Later that same day, medical staff informed investigators that the child had been placed on life support and was not expected to survive. Homicide detectives joined the investigation, working alongside Child Abuse detectives, DCFS, and patrol officers. The child died on Nov. 10, 2025. Her identity is being withheld due to her age. According to investigators, a two-week investigation determined the child had been subjected to ongoing abuse and that her death was the result of injuries inflicted by her father and stepmother. On Nov. 25, 2025, detectives arrested both suspects and booked them into the Long Beach City Jail with no bail: • Alfredo Munoz, 40, of Long Beach, booked on suspicion of murder, torture, and child abuse causing death. • Kelly Munoz, 34, of Long Beach, booked on suspicion of murder, torture, and child abuse causing death. Detectives plan to present the case to the Los Angeles County District Attorney’s Office next week for filing consideration. Anyone with additional information is urged to contact authorities.
Fatal Three-Vehicle Crash Under Investigation in L Fatal Three-Vehicle Crash Under Investigation in Long Beach LONG BEACH, Calif. — Police are investigating a fatal three-vehicle collision that occurred Saturday evening, Nov. 22, 2025, at the intersection of Long Beach Boulevard and East San Antonio Drive. Officers responded to the scene at approximately 6:57 p.m. and located an unconscious male driver inside a 2005 Nissan Altima in the northbound lanes of Long Beach Boulevard. Officers immediately began life-saving measures until Long Beach Fire Department personnel arrived and took over care. Despite those efforts, the driver was pronounced deceased at the scene. Preliminary findings indicate the Nissan Altima was traveling northbound at a high rate of speed when it rear-ended a 2018 Jeep Cherokee. The impact caused the Jeep to veer onto the sidewalk, strike a fire hydrant, and then collide with a parked 2007 Chevrolet Suburban in a nearby parking lot. The drivers of both the Jeep Cherokee and the Chevrolet Suburban remained at the scene and cooperated with investigators. Authorities say speed and possible impaired driving are being investigated as contributing factors in the crash. The identity of the deceased driver is being withheld pending notification of next of kin by the Los Angeles County Medical Examiner.
Gunman Opens Fire on Group of Teens Near Poly High Gunman Opens Fire on Group of Teens Near Poly High, Wounding One LONG BEACH, Calif. — A 16-year-old boy was hospitalized Tuesday morning after he was shot just blocks from Long Beach Polytechnic High School, authorities said. Long Beach police responded around 10:30 a.m. to reports of gunfire in the 500 block of New York Street, approximately three blocks from the Poly High campus. When officers arrived, they found a 16-year-old boy suffering from a non-life-threatening gunshot wound to the lower body, according to the Long Beach Police Department. Long Beach Fire Department crews treated the teen at the scene before transporting him to a local hospital. According to LBPD spokesperson Officer Eric Stachura, a preliminary investigation revealed that a man approached a group of male juveniles and brandished a firearm. The suspect then fired toward the group, striking the victim. The gunman fled before officers arrived. No suspect description was immediately available, and the motive remains under investigation. Police are urging anyone with information to contact LBPD detectives.
Man Struck by Bullet While Lying in Bed; Police In Man Struck by Bullet While Lying in Bed; Police Investigating Long Beach police are investigating a shooting that left a man with minor injuries after a bullet pierced the ceiling of his home late Saturday night. Officers responded to the 3600 block of Thornlake Avenue on November 15, 2025, at approximately 8:48 p.m. following reports of gunfire in the area. When they arrived, officers found a male adult victim who had sustained a minor, non-critical injury to his lower body. According to investigators, the man had been lying in bed when a bullet came through the ceiling and struck him, causing injury. Police said it remains unclear who fired the shot or what led to the gunfire. “The motive and circumstances of the incident remain under investigation,” the Long Beach Police Department stated. Detectives are continuing to gather evidence and speak with residents in an effort to determine where the gunfire originated. Anyone with information is urged to contact LBPD.
Long Beach Police Investigate Overnight Shooting a Long Beach Police Investigate Overnight Shooting and Stabbing Long Beach police are investigating two separate violent incidents reported late Saturday and early Sunday, leaving one man hospitalized and another recovering from a minor gunshot wound. Stabbing – 6000 Block of Cherry Avenue On November 16, 2025, at approximately 2:00 a.m., officers responded to the 6000 block of Cherry Avenue following a report of a stabbing. When officers arrived, they located a male adult victim suffering a non-life-threatening wound to the upper body. Long Beach Fire Department personnel treated the victim and transported him to a local hospital, where he remained in stable condition. According to investigators, the man and a female suspect were involved in a dispute that escalated into violence. The suspect, who stayed at the scene, was taken into custody without incident. She was identified as Melissa Mendoza, 42, of Long Beach. Mendoza was booked into the Long Beach City Jail on charges of assault with a deadly weapon and inflicting corporal injury to a spouse or cohabitant. Her bail was set at $50,000. The case remains under active investigation. Hit Shooting – 3600 Block of Thornlake Avenue Hours earlier, on November 15, 2025, at about 8:48 p.m., officers were called to the 3600 block of Thornlake Avenue after reports of shots fired. Police contacted a male adult victim who had sustained a minor, non-critical injury to his lower body. Detectives said the man was lying in bed when a bullet pierced the ceiling and struck him, causing only minimal injury. The motive in the shooting is still unknown, and detectives are working to determine where the shot originated and whether the victim was the intended target. Anyone with information regarding either incident is urged to contact Long Beach Police Department detectives as the investigations continue.
Long Beach Police Investigate Deadly Pickup Truck Long Beach Police Investigate Deadly Pickup Truck Collision Involving Pedestrian Long Beach Collision Investigation detectives are examining a deadly crash that occurred late Tuesday night, Nov. 12, 2025, leaving a woman dead at the intersection of East Anaheim Street and Alamitos Avenue. Authorities say the incident happened at approximately 10:25 p.m., when officers were dispatched to reports of a vehicle-versus-pedestrian collision. Responding officers found an adult female lying in the roadway. Long Beach Fire Department personnel arrived shortly after and pronounced her deceased at the scene. According to preliminary findings, a 1997 Chevrolet Sierra traveling westbound on East Anaheim Street struck the pedestrian as she was in the roadway outside of a marked crosswalk. Investigators say the driver stayed at the scene and cooperated fully with officers. At this stage, detectives do not believe speed, impaired driving, or distracted driving played a role in the collision. The Los Angeles County Medical Examiner’s Office will release the woman’s identity once next of kin have been notified. The investigation remains ongoing.
19-Year-Old Nursing Student Killed in Parking Lot 19-Year-Old Nursing Student Killed in Parking Lot Accident LONG BEACH, CA — A 19-year-old Long Beach woman died after she was run over by a driver backing out of a parking stall while she walked with her mother on Nov. 2, according to police and a fundraiser created for her family. Officers were dispatched around 3:55 p.m. to the 2200 block of Bellflower Boulevard, where they found the victim, later identified as Grace Edwards, suffering from severe upper-body injuries. Long Beach Fire Department personnel provided aid and rushed her to a local hospital in critical condition. On Nov. 5, she succumbed to her injuries. Investigators say Edwards was walking through the parking lot when a 2015 Lexus IS250 struck her as it exited a parking space. The driver, a 39-year-old Long Beach resident, remained at the scene and cooperated with authorities. Distracted driving is believed to be a contributing factor. Grace’s family described the community as “completely heartbroken.” They shared that she was a vibrant, carefree young woman, a loving daughter, sister, granddaughter, friend, and nursing student who dedicated herself to caring for children in her church and community. She especially loved time outdoors and moments spent with her close-knit family. The family also revealed Grace’s final act of generosity. The night before the accident, she had discussed becoming an organ donor with her parents. When doctors confirmed she would not survive, her family honored her wishes. On Nov. 9, surrounded by loved ones and hospital staff, Grace was given an Honor Walk before entering the operating room. Her heart was donated to an 8-year-old child. Loved ones say her legacy of kindness, service, and compassion will continue to impact others for years to come. A GoFundMe has been created to support the Edwards family during this devastating time. All funds raised will go directly to her family. GoFundMe: Honoring Grace Edwards, Help Her Family Heal https://www.gofundme.com/f/honoring-grace-edwards-help-her-family-heal
Second-Alarm Fire Damages Long Beach’s Casa Sanche Second-Alarm Fire Damages Long Beach’s Casa Sanchez Restaurant Long Beach, Calif. — A second-alarm fire broke out early Thursday morning at the popular Casa Sanchez restaurant in East Long Beach, causing significant damage and prompting a large emergency response. According to the Long Beach Fire Department, crews were dispatched around 6:57 a.m. after reports of heavy smoke and flames coming from the back of the restaurant, located near East Anaheim Street and Termino Avenue. Upon arrival, firefighters encountered intense heat and a possible gas leak, prompting the response to be upgraded to a second alarm. Firefighters brought the blaze under control by approximately 7:11 a.m. Crews remained on scene for several hours to ensure all hot spots were extinguished and to investigate the source of the fire. No injuries were reported among employees or emergency personnel. Investigators are still working to determine what caused the fire, including whether the reported gas leak played a role. Casa Sanchez has been a community staple since 1975, known for its Sonoran-style dishes such as carne asada, wet burritos, and nachos. Aguirre said his phone has been flooded with messages from loyal customers offering support and encouragement. Fire officials said nearby residents may continue to see emergency crews in the area as inspections and cleanup continue. Streets around East Anaheim and Termino could experience brief closures while investigators complete their work. The cause of the fire remains under investigation.
Long Beach Hospital Seeks Public’s Help to Identif Long Beach Hospital Seeks Public’s Help to Identify Unknown Patient Long Beach, CA — MemorialCare Long Beach Medical Center is asking for the public’s assistance in identifying an unknown man who has been receiving treatment at the hospital for several weeks following a possible hit-and-run accident. According to hospital officials, the man was brought to the medical center on October 23 after being found near Long Beach Boulevard and the 710 Freeway. He was admitted without any identification or personal documents. The patient is described as a Hispanic male in his 60s, approximately 5 feet 8 inches tall, weighing around 200 pounds, with silver-gray hair and brown eyes. Hospital staff and social workers have made repeated efforts to identify the man but have so far been unable to locate any family members or contacts. Anyone who recognizes the individual or has information that may assist in identifying him is urged to contact MemorialCare Long Beach Medical Center’s Emergency Department Social Work at 562-743-9507. Images of the man have been released to aid in the identification effort. The hospital is asking the community to help share this message widely so that the patient’s loved ones can be located.
Judge Rules Long Beach’s Early Measure A Tax Hike Judge Rules Long Beach’s Early Measure A Tax Hike Unconstitutional, City Accused of Misleading Public In a major embarrassment for Long Beach City Hall, a Sacramento Superior Court judge has ruled that Long Beach’s attempt to raise Measure A sales taxes two years ahead of schedule was unconstitutional, saving residents roughly $48 million over two years. On Friday, November 7, 2025, Judge Stephen Acquisto ruled that the city’s December 2024 “emergency” ordinance to begin collecting the higher tax in April 2025 violated the California Constitution’s Proposition 218, which requires voter approval for any local tax increase. The Long Beach Reform Coalition (LBRC) filed the lawsuit in February 2025, arguing that the City Council’s move undermined the legally voter-approved timeline in Measure A. Councilmembers Zendejas, Allen, Duggan, Kerr, Saro, and Ricks-Oddie all voted for the early increase, relying on City Attorney Dawn McIntosh’s assurance that it was “legally sound.” But court filings reveal the city already knew the state would not approve the plan. Documents show that by late November 2024 two weeks before the City Council vote the California Department of Tax and Fee Administration (CDTFA) had warned McIntosh and the City Manager that starting the tax early would be unconstitutional. That crucial fact was never disclosed to the public or the council before the vote. The ruling not only invalidates the city’s early tax ordinance but raises deeper questions: Why did city leaders proceed with a vote after being told by the state their plan was illegal? Why wasn’t that information shared publicly? And can Long Beach residents trust City Hall’s legal guidance moving forward? City Attorney McIntosh who faces re-election in 2026 could see the issue return to the ballot box. Critics argue her advice cost taxpayers legal fees and eroded public trust. As Long Beach heads toward another election cycle, residents are left asking: Who at City Hall is truly working for the people and who’s just spinning the truth?
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